19 June,2026 12:47 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Anupam Kher. Pic via X
Veteran actor Anupam Kher has shared a powerful video titled 'I Am An Indian', where he challenges common stereotypes about Indians while celebrating the country's rich culture, history and global contributions. The actor posted the video on Instagram along with a note explaining that the idea stemmed from a WhatsApp forward that made him reflect on how Indians are often perceived across the world.
In the video, Kher addresses several assumptions about Indians, including criticism surrounding civic sense, job opportunities, public celebrations and cultural identity. He highlights what he believes are double standards often applied to Indians.
"I am an Indian and everyone says I lack civic sense. They can overturn cars, burn streets and vandalise a city after a championship game. I dance at an airport excited about my first foreign trip and suddenly I am the face of poor civic sense," he says.
The actor also responds to accusations that Indians take away jobs overseas. "I study, compete, earn a visa, work 18 hours a day, sometimes multiple jobs and somehow, I am the one stealing jobs and scamming the system," he adds.
Kher goes on to speak about Indians being labelled 'too loud' or 'everywhere', pointing out the contributions they make across industries and societies worldwide.
"I build your software, treat your illness, teach your children, drive your taxis and open your stores. Yet my presence remains a problem," he says.
The actor also defends India's vibrant celebrations and traditions, arguing that weddings, festivals and cultural gatherings are often unfairly judged.
A significant part of the video focuses on India's civilisational legacy. Kher highlights the country's contributions to mathematics, philosophy, yoga and meditation while rejecting claims that India lacks culture.
"I come from a civilization that counted the stars when much of the world was still learning maps. I speak languages older than nations. I celebrate hundreds of traditions yet I am told I have no culture," he says.
Sharing the video, Kher clarified that it was not created to prove a point to critics but to remind Indians of their shared strength and identity.
He concluded his post with a message of pride, writing, "Here is to all of us. Watch it, smile, reflect, and perhaps feel a little proud. I am an Indian. Jai Hind!"
